7 Reasons You May Seek Faucet Repair
Faucet Repair in Chicago: 7 Reasons You May Need It
It starts with a slow drip—maybe something you can fix by turning the faucet handle just a little tighter. But soon that drip becomes a constant annoyance, one that keeps you up at night or greets you after work with a puddle in the sink. At that point, it’s clear: your faucet needs professional attention.
But before you call in a plumber, it helps to understand what might be causing the issue and how to talk about it clearly. Knowing what to look for can help you avoid unnecessary stress—and potentially save you money.
What Happens If You Ignore a Leaking Faucet?
Many homeowners assume a dripping faucet is just a minor inconvenience. In reality, it can lead to:
- Stubborn water stains that make your sink look dirty, even when it’s clean
- Potential flooding if your drain is closed and the faucet is left dripping for hours
- Higher water bills from gallons of wasted water over time
Even a small drip can waste hundreds of gallons a year, which adds up quickly. Ignoring the problem also increases the risk of needing a full replacement later on.
Benefits of Prompt Faucet Repair
Fixing a leaky faucet right away offers immediate benefits:
- Lower utility bills
- Less stress and mess from unexpected leaks
- Preserved fixtures and finishes in kitchens and bathrooms
- Peace of mind knowing you're protecting your plumbing system
Understanding the root cause is the first step toward resolution—and often, it’s a simple fix.
7 Common Causes of a Leaking Faucet
1. Damaged Internal Parts
In compression-style faucets (those with separate hot and cold handles), stem assemblies and washers often wear out and cause persistent drips. These parts are inexpensive but critical.
2. Worn-Out Cartridge
Cartridge faucets, which use a movable internal cartridge, can begin leaking when that cartridge becomes damaged or worn.
3. Water Pressure Issues
Low or inconsistent water pressure may signal a broken pipe somewhere in the system, which can impact faucet performance and cause leaks. A licensed plumber can investigate and confirm the source.
4. Broken Pipe or Fitting
Beyond the faucet itself, leaking may stem from a loose or damaged fitting—such as a valve seat, clip, or connector—especially if water is leaking from under the sink or around the base.
5. Hard Water Buildup
Minerals in hard water can erode rubber washers and seals over time, making your faucet prone to dripping or corrosion-related damage.
6. Failing O-Ring
Faucet handles are held in place with stem screws, which use small rubber discs called O-rings. These wear out from regular use and are a frequent cause of handle leaks.
7. Loose Handles
Handles that wiggle or require constant tightening may be signaling worn parts or internal stress on the faucet. Moisture around the base of the handle is often the first visible clue.
Don’t Wait to Address a Dripping Faucet
While a leaking faucet might not qualify as a plumbing emergency, it’s far from a harmless issue. If left unattended, it can lead to greater wear on your fixtures, water waste, and increased utility costs.
At Quality Plumbing Services Inc., we provide fast, affordable faucet repairs in the Chicago area. Whether you need a simple O-ring replacement or a more involved fix, we’ll diagnose the issue and get your plumbing working like new again.
Call Quality Plumbing Services Inc. today to schedule your faucet repair.
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